Mona Fortier

August 2, 2024

A word from your MP

Dear residents,

Over the past few weeks, a number of activities and events have taken place in Ottawa-Vanier.

On July 27, a commemorative event to mark the 71st anniversary of the Korean War Armistice took place at the War Memorial. I participated in the wreath-laying ceremony with His Excellency Woogsoon Lim, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea, Senator Rebecca Patterson, LGEN Michael Wright, veterans and distinguished guests. The event paid tribute to Canadian veterans who served in Korea, and underscored the importance of remembering their sacrifice to preserve peace and freedom. The ceremony strengthened the ties between Canada and South Korea, two nations united by a shared history and a common commitment to world peace and freedom.

And August 1st marked the 80th anniversary of the Warsaw Uprising. A commemoration ceremony was held at the Monument to Canadian Airmen in the Polish Home Army. It was a privilege and an honor to meet Lt Col. Eva Poninska-Konopacka, a veteran of the uprising and recipient of the Military Order of Virtuti Militari. For 9 weeks, she and thousands of her compatriots fought against tyranny and for the freedom of their country. Thousands paid the ultimate sacrifice, including 26 Canadians. In honouring their memory, we reaffirm our commitment to peace, democracy and human rights. Let's take a moment to reflect on the bravery of veterans like Eva.

These two ceremonies remind us of the importance of recognizing the sacrifices made by Canadians to preserve peace and freedom. We will remember them.

Last week, the Government of Canada announced its investing into two new laboratories on the main campus of the National Research Council of Canada in Ottawa-Vanier. This consolidates Canada's position as a leader in science and innovation, while stimulating the local economy and job creation. These modern facilities will foster research collaboration and excellence, and help attract and retain talented researchers from around the world to the National Capital Region. The total investment is worth $1.5 billion.

Over the past few weeks, I had the opportunity to visit young people working under the Canada Summer Jobs program at a number of community organizations, including the Ottawa Community Housing Corporation, the University of Ottawa and the Centre Inuuqatigiit. This initiative gives young people hands-on work experience and an opportunity to develop work skills and abilities. Their enthusiasm and hard work also have a significant impact on our community.

I also paid a visit to the CityParkway and Chartwell New Edinburgh retirement homes. I really enjoyed spending time with them while playing Jeopardy! We also discussed issues and priorities they care for in Ottawa-Vanier.

Tuesday, July 30th, was World Anti-Trafficking Day. I attended FINTRAC_Canada's annual event in support of this day, held at the University of Ottawa. We must unite against human trafficking and support the victims by actively seeking to put an end to this crime. I learned a lot about Project Protect, an initiative that brings together law enforcement, NGOs, financial institutions and youth leaders to dismantle trafficking networks. Together, we can make a difference and help put an end to human trafficking.

I also had the privilege of taking part in the Fete du Trône organized by the Moroccan Embassy to celebrate the 25th anniversary of His Majesty King Mohammed VI's accession to the throne, and to underscore the deep ties and relations that unite Canada and Morocco. In addition, I had the opportunity to exchange with the Moroccan-Canadian community and discuss their important contributions to our communities.

Save the date! My community BBQ will take place on August 24, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. We'll announce the location shortly.

I'll be on vacation for the next two weeks. Please know that my office will be open and the team will be available to serve you. I'll be back the week of August 19th.

New Horizons for Seniors Program: Government of Canada launches call for proposals for community projects to help seniors

Canadians deserve to age with dignity. That comes down to choice, to affordability, to inclusion, and to community. For 20 years, the New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP) has helped the Government of Canada deliver on that promise to Canadian seniors by supporting those organizations working to make their lives better.

The government launched the 2024–25 call for proposals for community-based projects through the NHSP.

Organizations can apply for funding to deliver projects that will help seniors be more connected and active members of their communities. Organizations are encouraged to reflect the four national priorities for this cycle as part of their projects:

supporting healthy aging;
preventing senior abuse;
celebrating diversity and promoting inclusion; and
supporting financial security.

The NHSP funds a wide variety of projects, such as online computer classes, financial literacy and fraud prevention education, meal deliveries, and the purchase of equipment to help keep seniors informed, connected and engaged.

The call for proposals is open until September 12, 2024. Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications electronically on the Grants and Contributions Online Services portal. Creating an account is a one-time process that allows organizations to apply for various Employment and Social Development Canada funding opportunities in a secure web environment. Organizations serving seniors can access support to prepare their application by contacting their nearest NHSP office. For details on how to apply, visit https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/programs/new-horizons-seniors.html.

In the community

Partage Beechwood
Did you know the tickets are on sale for the next edition of Partage Beechwood. This event, hosted by the Vanier BIA in partnership with Beechwood Cemetery, Vanier Community Service Centre (VCSC), and numerous generous sponsors, is held on August 21st and promises to be the most unique dinner party you'll ever attend.

Click here to learn more!

Movie Night

Join Beacon Hill - Cyrville Councillor Tim Tierney for a movie night!
When? August 2, 2024, 8:30 p.m.
Where: Meadowbrook Park

Celebrate International Youth Day!

There will be games, panel discussions, a BBQ and more!
When: Monday, August 12, 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Where: 235 Montreal Road

Check out the Vanier HUB for all your summer vibes! From July to October, the Vanier BIA and our awesome partners are rolling out a lineup of diverse, inclusive, and bilingual events.

You can view their summer schedule below, and also click here to learn more.

Visit the Chez Marilou boutique by Maison Marie Louise.

Chez Marilou is always at your service, Tuesday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., at 235 Ste-Anne Ave, Vanier.

And did you know that we offer a French book to every child who enters the boutique with their parents. They choose the one they like from our superb collection!

Until August 17
- Women's tops, shorts, skirts, pants, pajamas - $5 for $10
- Women's dresses - $6 or 3 for $15
- All children's shoes and sandals - $4
- Espadrilles for adults - $5

Have you seen our toy room? We're very proud of it!

- Our Barbie dolls are washed, styled and dressed thanks to the talents of Sr. Ginette Simard! We have about thirty of them at $4 each.
Our garage is now an extension of the boutique. You'll find all kinds of things... just like you'd find in a garage!

Click here to find out more

Summer 2024 at Grotte Notre Dame de Lourdes Vanier

Feast of the Assumption of Mary: Join us in celebrating this important spiritual event, marked by days of renewal and reflection. It's an opportunity to gather as a community to renew our faith and share moments of prayer and communion.

Days of renewal - August 12, 13 and 14 at 7:00 pm
Mass with preaching by Mgr Marcel Damphousse
Mass with blessing of the sick on August 15 at 3:00 pm
Solemn Mass of the Assumption on August 15 at 8:00 pm

Click here to learn more!